British Studies

Interdisciplinary Minor

“As part of my work in this minor, I studied abroad in London and that experience really influenced me. The Shakespeare course turned out to be one of my favorite topics. In the end, this minor won’t just enhance my résumé, it will give me greater insights in my future job as an educator.”– Bridget Walsh ’13

When you hear the phrase British invasion, you’re not thinking red coats and rifles, right? You’re thinking mid 1960s, the Beatles, Rolling Stones and the Animals. Or maybe you’ve got Shakespeare, David Beckham or J.K. Rowling in mind. If you want to understand what that phrase really means — as well as the influence those groups and individuals have had on American society – you’ll need some context, and that means immersing yourself in British studies. At the College of Charleston, students who minor in British studies examine the significant impact that the culture, customs and institutions of the U.K. have had on the world. That’s not limited to modern musical movements, political systems, religious denominations or literary legacies. It can include theatre, film, business and many other subjects. In this program, you’ll also study the ways in which British identity manifests itself in the countries that were once part of the former British Empire, as well as within the European Union and the broader global community. Want examples? Think the English language, the work of Charles Darwin, or any musical by Andrew Lloyd Weber. The faculty who support this program represent the departments of:

English

history

political science

anthropology

art history

music

theatre

Why does any of this matter to you? Because Britain was, and remains, one of the most influential nations in terms of science, literature, politics, theatre, film and so many other areas. If you’re interested in economics, London is the world’s financial capital. If you’re interested in physics, the history of that field is firmly entwined in British history. Name nearly any discipline and there’s some British connection that can lead you to a better understanding of that field. It’s true, you don’t have to be an aficionado of punk music, Victorian literature or fallen empires to appreciate — and benefit from — British studies. Why not check it out?